MUSCAT: The first phase of implementing the decision to combat hidden trade has begun, covering the governorates of Muscat, Dhofar, and Al Batinah North. The National Team for Combating Hidden Trade, led by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, is contributing to creating an attractive business environment in the Sultanate of Oman and creating appropriate conditions thereof, and to promote the work of the economic sectors in general and small and medium enterprises in particular (SMEs).
Mubarak bin Mohamed al Dohani, Director General of Commerce and Chairman of the National Team to Combat Hidden Trade, emphasized that the team aims to achieve several objectives. These include effectively combating illegal trade while enhancing economic integrity by reducing the misuse or exploitation of management and various professions.
Al-Dohani clarified that the National Team to Combat Hidden Trade, chaired by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, includes members from the Royal Oman Police, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Information represented by Government Communication center, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, Consumer Protection Authority, Tax Authority, and the Central Bank of Oman.
He added that the regulatory activities covered approximately 106 types of activities. These include activities prohibited for foreign investment, except for 20 specific activities, as well as activities in the telecommunications sector, pharmacies, and dental clinics, provided that the company has been established for at least 5 years.
Al-Dohani has also clarified that the team aims to mitigate the negative impacts of hidden trade on the national economy and local markets. These impacts include the rise in cases of commercial fraud, influencing labor market regulations, unfair competition with entrepreneurs and small to medium enterprises, tax evasion, and circumventing established procedures.
It should be noted that Ministerial Decision 412/2023 stipulated that the implementation of its provisions will follow mechanisms defined by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, taking into consideration the nature and scale of each activity governed by this decision. The decision specifies that anyone who becomes aware of any instance of hidden trade must immediately report it to the Ministry. Evidence of violations outlined in this decision will be established using all legally recognized methods of proof, including electronic evidence, as specified in the effective Omani laws and decrees.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion may assign specialized employees from its central headquarters or its affiliated directorates and departments to monitor establishments and enter them at any time to ensure compliance with the provisions of this decision. They are authorized to take necessary actions against any violations committed. The Ministry emphasized that cases of hidden trade can be reported by calling 80000070 or emailing info@tejarah.gov.om, aiming to safeguard national interests by reducing this detrimental practice that undermines the national economy.
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